Barcelona to miss out on striker to Real Madrid

Real Madrid look set to win the race for Palmeiras forward Gabriel Jesus. Ahead of Barcelona, Manchester City and Inter Milan.

Barcelona had been linked to agreeing a 'first option' deal with the Brazilian club, but intense interest from Real Madrid has seen Barca's rivals become the favourites to sign the 19-year-old Brazilian.

Spanish newspaper Marca have reported that 'a €30 million fee may be struck in the coming days' with Real Madrid.

It isn't clear if the deal will be immediate, or if Palmeiras will get their wish to keep hold of him until the end of the domestic season.

Palmeiras have been quite clear in their stance that the Brazil and Palmeiras forward would not leave his club this year.

Palmeiras coach Cuca wants to hold on to his squad as the Campeonato Brasileiro runs through until December and losing their young star would obvious affect their season on the pitch.

Talk of deals in-excess of €30 million wouldn't see Palmeiras receive a huge windfall as it is reported that Gabriel Jesus has a complicated ownership status which sees Palmeiras only own 30%, with the player himself owning 15% and the majority 55% is split over several different agents.

So whilst financially it's in the best interests of the player and his apparent entourage of agents, it's not a deal which will see Palmeiras desperate to sell.